In 2020, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada jointly awarded DuPont Second Life Materials (2LM) and Innofibre three years of funding and support for a recycling research and development project.  2LM is partnering with Innofibre to explore new, sustainable applications using Tyvek® process outfall. Innofibre is an applied research and development center that supports the Canadian paper and biorefining industries through biomass product innovation, diversification of biomass-based products, and adapting paper technologies. Innofibre’s multidisciplinary teams also develop new specialized papers, thermoformed packaging, bio-based barrier agents and modified cellulosic fibers.

The collaboration will provide the expertise and facilities needed to develop a novel pulp that uses the unique fiber structure and morphology of Tyvek® byproduct and recycles it for new, high-value applications. Potential applications being explored include thermoforming, high-performance ultra-thin membranes, water and vapor barrier products, and reinforcement pulps. Combining our experience and unique assets, 2LM and Innofibre aim to expand the established recycling programs currently available for Tyvek® and develop a new and sustainable offering.